The Best UK Amazon Microwave Ovens For Your Kitchen In 2022
We reviewed all of the top Amazon microwave ovens on the market to find the best microwave for every type of household
Editors Choice
Best Value
Easy Clean
Low Cost Model
July 25th, 2022
13 Minute Read
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A good microwave oven is one you can heavily rely on giving good results every time you use it. Also one for all the family helps too.
With microwaves wattage = power. Meaning 1000W has more cooking power than a 700W microwave. 1000W microwaves have extremely efficient cooking power and cook food through. In General the higher the W or Wattage, the quicker the food can be cooked.
Which one you choose will depend on what type of meals you regularly cook. Depending on your family size or needs/kitchen space, you can choose from a wide range of sizes, power and price.
The Ovenreview.co.uk site has rigorously tested 10 different models to find the best microwave oven, these are the top 5 performers.
But what do you need to know before you rush out and buy a new microwave? In this article we will explain the key features of a range of models and help you decide on the perfect model for you and your needs.
What type of microwave do I need?
What are the main types of microwaves? There are 3 main types of microwaves you can buy: Counter top microwaves, built in or over the range. Each type has it’s own positives and negatives. Studies have shown that 90% of American households still use microwave ovens reinforcing the need for such a critical tool in our kitchens.
Built in and over the range type microwaves are typically more expensive and require professional installation. That’s why in this article we will just inform you with the most popular type of microwave. The on counter top option. Built in options will however save more space in your kitchen. Typical domestic counter top microwave ovens with modern control panels are still more popular now in the kitchen than before.
What size of microwave do I need?
Your size of your microwave depends on what foods you like to cook, the size of your kitchen and how often the microwave is used. Bigger models cost more, take up more space but often cook foods better. However if your counter kitchen space is limited, then a smaller grill microwave maybe your best bet.
Most modern microwaves are large enough to fit 10inch dining plates. The most common size ranges from 24-27 litres of space. Always measure out your desired area in your kitchen before buying a microwave!
What is better a microwave or an oven?
What is better a microwave or an oven? This depends on your personal needs and wants. As a former university student, a microwave oven was my go-to source of making food.
The difference between microwaves and conventional ovens are simple, microwaves cook food from the inside-out whereas conventional ovens cook food from the outside-in. This allows microwaves to become much more efficient. Studies have shown that gas ovens are only 9% effective whereas electric convection ovens are only 17% effective. Microwave ovens are however more than 50% more effective than typical gas convection ovens.
What doesn't my microwave cook food evenly?
Your microwave probably does not cook food evenly because you are using a lower wattage model. Typically models 700W and above cook food more consistently. More expensive models come with more features like Alexa voice control and apps. Newer microwaves often have more settings and dials to specifically cater for your microwave kitchen needs.
Can I cook a pizza or bake in a microwave?
The short answer is yes! You can cook a pizza and bake in a microwave oven. Most modern microwaves often come with grill options. Grills are perfect for cooking crusty pizzas and baking double layer cakes.
Pizzas are often quicker to cook in the microwave from frozen than heating up a conventional convection oven. Small pizzas can take up to 6 minutes whilst larger pizzas in the microwave can take up to 12 minutes to cook through.
What can't I put into the microwave?
There are also some materials and certain foods you should not put in the microwave because they may cause your microwave to fail or cause injury. Here are just 3 of the top things you should not put to your microwave.
- Metal – The inside of a microwave is actually made from metal creating a mirror effect. Instead of casting a reflection of your face, the metal reflects radio waves or microwaves. The radio waves emit electromagnetic energy, warming up the contents. When metal is placed inside a microwave, the waves are reflected off of the metal and into the sides of the microwave potentially causing the microwave to melt.
- Plastic – Plastic contains many chemicals and oils. When placed in a microwave they can melt causing the release of Bisphenol A or BPA. According to a Harvard study plastic and microwaved plastic can increases the chances of cancer.
- Eggs – Because microwaves cook at such high temperatures, trying to cook an egg would create steam within the eggs shell. The steam rises in the egg, causing it to explode.
Best microwave oven comparison
| Featured | Model | Price | Power and Size | Learn More |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Editor's Choice | Sharp YC-MG51U-S | £119.97 | 900W / 25 Litres | |
Best Value | Russell Hobbs RHM2076B | £66.99 | 800W / 20 Litres | |
Easiest To Clean | Tower KOC9C5TT | £149.99 | 900W / 28 Litres | |
Low-Cost Model | COMFEE CM-M202GSF | £60.49 | 700W / 20 Litres | |
Best Cooker | Panasonic NN-CT57JMBPQ | £234.97 | 999W / 27 Litres |
Amazon.co.uk price list (as of 30.06.22) For more info read our disclaimer
Sharp YC-MG51U-S - Editor's Choice
The information in this section is according to Amazon.co.uk (30.06.22)
If you are looking for a new averagely priced model then look no further. The Sharp YG is a powerful 900W microwave oven and grill with a large 25 litre capacity and a turntable inside, complete with 11 levels of cooking power and 8 different automatic programmes.
Features include 1100 W microwave grill with grill only, grill and microwave combination, or a microwave only settings. The microwave also comes with a digital clock and kitchen timer, ECO function and child safety lock perfect for small families.
Sharp YC-MG51U-S
| Sharp YC-MG51U-S | |
|---|---|
Price* | £199.97 |
Size | 25 Litres |
Depth | 51 x 39 x 30 cm |
Weight | 16.68 Kg |
Power | 900W |
Microwave Type | Counter Top |
Special Features | Handleless design, touch control panel, LED display, 900W, 11 power levels, 8 programmes, 1000W Grill, Eco Mode, Safety Lock |
Amazon.co.uk (30.06.22) Any price and availability information displayed on relevant Amazon site(s), as applicable, at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Other Features
Modern handle-less design – With a fashionable silver back finish, complemented by a black door window and control panel with an LED display, perfect for reading.
The 8 Cooking programmes include – Popcorn, jacket potato, pizza, frozen vegetables, reheat drinks, reheat dinner plates, plus time and weight defrosting function.
Easy to clean exterior – The ideal addition to any kitchen, with full touch control, electric panel and all-over flat, easy-to-wipe down design.
Price
The middle of the range microwave oven is well worth the bang for it’s buck coming in at £119.97 (30.06.22). That is the reason why believe with the Sharp YC will give the most features for the price.
Sharp also offers higher range options such as the Sharp YC-QC254AU-B this is a little bit more expensive but will include more features. We like the modern design of Sharp products. Other cheaper options like the Sharp YC-MS01U-B also offer that chic Sharp design.
Russell Hobbs RHM2076B - Best Value
If you are looking for a cheaper model which still has many features and a powerful power unit, then look further than the Russell Hobbs RHM2076B microwave oven.
In recent years the mirrored finishes of Russell Hobbs products has astonished us. The best value model is no exception. This attractive appliance is simple and easy to use with 800 watts of microwave power, providing you quick and convenient cooking in your home.
Russell Hobbs RHM2076B
| Russell Hobbs RHM2076B | |
|---|---|
Price* | £66.99 |
Size | 20 Litres |
Depth | 21 x 30 x 30 cm |
Weight | 11 Kg |
Power | 800W |
Microwave Type | Counter Top |
Special Features | Floorless design, defrosting ease, clear surfaces allowing easy clean, auto cooking pizza program, comfortably fit a large dinner plate |
Amazon.co.uk (30.06.22) Any price and availability information displayed on relevant Amazon site(s), as applicable, at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Other Features
A large capacity – 20L capacity comfortably fits a normal sized dinner plate. The glass turntable is removable allowing simple cleaning, and can also be cleaned in the dishwasher.
Easy Defrost – This microwave has automatic defrost settings, all you have to do is input the weight of the food, and the microwave decides the perfect defrost time.
Extra features – Additional features include pre-programmed auto cook menus for pizza, fish and popcorn, allowing you to cook at the push of a button.
Prices
We think the Russell Hobbs RHM2076B is an absolute steal at just below £70. There are not many other models with similar features. It is no wonder the Russell Hobbs microwave has over 10,000 average 4.5 star reviews on Amazon.
Russell Hobbs also offers similar models. Like the Russell Hobbs Retro which is also around the same price range with similar features with a retro feel to it. A similar package can be bought with a toaster included!
The Russell Hobbs Copper model also caught our eye with it’s unique copper outside. Also giving it a sleek and modern feel. Though it is a bit smaller than other similar microwaves, but comes with 5 different power settings to make up for it.
Tower KOC9C5TT - Easiest to Clean
The Tower KOC9C5TT is easiest the most unique microwave we reviewed. The 3-IN-1 functionality all-in-one combination appliance saves time and energy, letting you cook using microwave, convection oven and grill functions.
The large capacity of 28 litres allows the entire family to cook multiple meals at once. With tall height for use of the grill function, including a wide 325 mm glass turntable. Perfect for larger dinner plates.
Tower KOC9C5TT
| Tower KOC9C5TT | |
|---|---|
Price* | £149.99 |
Size | 28 Litres |
Depth | 51 x 38 x 31 cm |
Weight | 17.59 Kg |
Power | 900W |
Microwave Type | Counter Top |
Special Features | Simple design, defrosting ease, honeycomb-shaped interior for heat, creates steam on the inside to clean, cray long 3 year guarantee |
Amazon.co.uk (30.06.22) Any price and availability information displayed on relevant Amazon site(s), as applicable, at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Other Features
Eco mode – Standby setting reduces energy consumption when the appliance is not in use to save on running costs. This is extremely important considering the rise in the cost of living in the EU and the UK, including electricity and gas.
Honey comb inside – Inside is specially designed to provide evenly heated cooking. The honey-comb is able to cook the food more evenly giving you a better tasting meal.
Steam cleaner – The Tower KOC9C5TT setting uses a cup of water to create a steam like flush system, cleaning the inside walls of the microwave stopping food being stuck.
3 Year – The product comes with a standard 1 year guarantee, extended by an additional 2 years once you register the product online
Price
The Tower KOC9C5TT maybe more on the expensive side, but the extra features like self cleaning and many heating methods make up for it. Tower themselves claim you should “Trade in the traditional oven for a more convenient way of cooking with Tower’s all-in-one combination microwave. Create a variety of delicious dishes with microwave, grill and convection oven functions at the push of a button.”
Tower also sells other models like the Tower Infinity which offers a glass front design, another cheaper option but with less power than Tower’s flagship design.
COMFEE CM-M202GSF - Low-Cost Model
If you are looking for a low priced basic machine, then the COMFEE CM-M202GSF is the right microwave for you. The design is rather dated but the 5 Power Levels make up for the lack of colour. This microwave’s power levels makes it great for a broad range of heating jobs, whether you’re softening ice cream or getting leftovers piping hot.
This 20L microwave oven features a user-friendly control panel, interior light, clock & kitchen timer. If you are looking at options with more features then this is unfortunately not the model for you. But nethertheless the basic design and price make it very easy to use.
COMFEE CM-M202GSF
| COMFEE CM-M202GSF | |
|---|---|
Price* | £60.49 |
Size | 20 Litres |
Depth | 44 x 34 x 25 cm |
Weight | 10.7 Kg |
Power | 700W |
Microwave Type | Counter Top |
Special Features | Simple design, easy defrosting button, 5 different power levels, pure white colour fits with most kitchens |
Amazon.co.uk (30.06.22) Any price and availability information displayed on relevant Amazon site(s), as applicable, at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Other Features
The small and light COMFEE was designed to fit in almost all kitchens, the white appeal gives it the neutral look which can work in many different kitchen styles.
Start defrosting by weight/time with just one touch of a button, saving precious time when you’re in a rush! The quick and easy defrosting method is a key feature on this model.
The basic design means the instructions are very easy to follow. As a budget option, this microwave also has the ability to be placed in mobile homes or vans, as the COMFEE does not take up much space.
Price
As for the price of the COMFEE we could not complain, the easy to use features make this model way worth the price. This particular microwave has over 2300 4.5 star or more reviews on Amazon. Proving this is not a microwave to skip over.
COMFEE also do other cheaper and more expensive models. The slight more expensive COMFEE Retro coming in at £74.99 is another great deal. This model comes with the upgraded 800W unit allowing food to be heated quicker.
Mark Hoffman
Mark Hoffman has worked as a freelancer and writer for several years. Reviewing ovens, washing machines and any other household items he can get his hands on. When he’s not sitting in-front of a computer he enjoys cycling, climbing and volunteering at charitable health organisations.
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